Match Preview: Barcelona vs. Leganés
As the La Liga season unfolds, Barcelona prepares to host Leganes at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys this Sunday night, eager to return to winning ways after a frustrating draw last week. Currently perched at the top of the table with 38 points, Hansi Flick’s side holds a slender one-point lead over rivals Real Madrid, making this match crucial for maintaining their advantage.
Barcelona comes into this fixture following an impressive 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, a result that bolstered their confidence. However, their domestic form remains a concern, with just one win in their last five league outings, including two disappointing defeats. Last weekend’s last-gasp equalizer from Real Betis left them feeling robbed of three points, despite Ferran Torres’ late goal putting them in a strong position.
The Catalans boast the best attacking record in La Liga, having scored a remarkable 50 goals this season. Yet, inconsistency has crept in, and they will be looking to right the ship against a Leganes side that has struggled this term. Despite their troubles, Leganes has shown resilience, particularly on the road, managing to draw five of their eight away matches this season.
Leganes, currently sitting 17th with 15 points after 16 matches, comes into this match on the back of a disheartening 3-0 defeat to Real Sociedad. Having returned to La Liga for the first time since the 2019-20 season, their primary goal remains to avoid relegation. Historically, they have struggled against Barcelona, securing only one victory in their nine previous encounters, which came at home in September 2018. Nonetheless, they’ll take solace in having scored six goals against the Catalans in past meetings, suggesting they can pose a threat.
From a squad perspective, Barcelona is still without long-term absentees Marc-André ter Stegen and Marc Bernal, but Ronald Araujo may make his long-awaited return. Ansu Fati and Andreas Christensen are also back in training, potentially adding depth to the squad. Meanwhile, Raphinha’s fitness concerns seem to have cleared, and he is expected to start, pushing Torres back to the bench despite his recent scoring form.
On the other side, Leganes faces injury concerns with Darko Brasanac, Dani Raba, and Enric Franquesa sidelined, while Valentin Rosier is suspended. Head coach Borja Jimenez is likely to keep a stable lineup but may introduce Juan Cruz and Munir El Haddadi into the starting XI, with Munir keen to impress against his former club.
As Barcelona looks to solidify their lead at the top of the table and regain momentum, Leganes will aim to pull off an upset that could boost their survival hopes. This clash promises an intriguing battle between a title contender and a determined underdog, setting the stage for an exciting night of football.
Match Preview: Atlético Madrid vs. Getafe
As Atletico Madrid gears up to host Getafe at the Wanda Metropolitano on Sunday afternoon, all eyes will be on the Red and Whites as they aim to extend their remarkable winning streak. Under the astute management of Diego Simeone, Atletico is currently riding high with ten consecutive victories across all competitions, including five straight wins in La Liga. Their recent form positions them firmly in the title race, sitting third in the table with 35 points from 16 matches, just one point shy of Real Madrid and three behind league leaders Barcelona.
Atletico’s home advantage has been palpable this season, boasting an impressive record of six wins and two draws from eight home matches, accumulating 20 points. Their last league triumph came against Sevilla, where they showcased their defensive solidity, having conceded only 11 goals throughout the season. With a crucial away game against Barcelona looming next week, this match against Getafe could set the tone for a pivotal period in their title chase.
On the other hand, Getafe arrives in good spirits, having won four of their last five matches across all competitions. Following a recent 1-0 victory over Espanyol, they currently sit 15th in the La Liga standings, with 16 points from 16 matches. Despite being the lowest scorers in the league with just 11 goals, they have demonstrated a resilient defence, sharing the joint-second best record with Real Madrid, having conceded only 13 goals.
The matchup promises to be a clash of contrasting styles: Atletico’s potent attack led by the prolific Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez, who have 11 and 12 goals this season respectively, against Getafe’s sturdy defence. However, Getafe will face a significant challenge as they look to halt Atletico’s momentum, especially with the absence of key players like Carles Alena, Borja Mayoral, and suspended midfielder Mauro Arambarri.
As the teams prepare for battle, Atletico is expected to field a strong lineup, potentially featuring Conor Gallagher in a wide role while looking to capitalize on their attacking prowess. Conversely, Getafe will rely on the creativity of Alvaro Rodriguez, who recently scored the winner against Espanyol, to break through Atletico’s disciplined backline.
With both teams in good form, the match promises to be a captivating encounter, showcasing the tactical brilliance of Simeone’s side against the determined spirit of Bordalas’s men. Can Atletico extend their winning run, or will Getafe pull off a surprise result? Fans will be eagerly anticipating what unfolds in this La Liga showdown.
